This weekend was Family Weekend. It was also the last Family Weekend I would have at Amherst College. I remember my freshman year, I felt awkward when my family came. With only a month since I last saw them, I felt the event stifling. This wasn’t how I imagined college. I expected complete indepence and freedom from my parents’ watchful eye. I criticized everything my parents said and was easily embarrassed by their comments. It’s interesting how things change in such a short period of time.
Yesterday, it appeared that because of a broken boiler, my family wouldn’t be able to visit. There was a sinking feeling in my stomach and I realized how much it meant to me that my family always came to see me for Family’s Weekend. Even worse, most people expected to see my family and constantly expected them to arrive. I looked back to all those times when I was foolishly embarrassed by their affection because of how much my senior yourself longed for it.
My dad texted me to say if I still wanted him to come, he would drive up. I told him I did and Saturday morning he drove three and a half hours to spend about seven hours with me. I had never been more grateful to see him. I listened to him as he conversed with other parents and teased my friends with pride. This was my dad, my family and I was so happy to show them off this weekend.
For the students who’s loved ones can’t make it to Family Weekend, my heart goes out to you. I know that I am very fortunate to have a family that can drive up for a day on short notice. I hope that this weekend, you were able to meet the family’s of friends and acquaintances and connected with your own loved ones through various ways of communication. Remember, too, that Amherst can be a family to you as well.
For those students with loved ones still visiting, count your graces. Enjoy your time with them because these moments will stay with you forever.